What percentage of people develop substance use issues due to surviving abuse and/or violent trauma?

Research indicates that a significant percentage of individuals who experience abuse and/or violent trauma subsequently develop substance use issues as a coping mechanism for their distress. The statistic of 75% underscores the strong correlation between past traumas and the prevalence of substance use disorders. Survivors of such traumatic experiences often struggle with overwhelming emotions, leading to the use of substances to numb pain or escape reality. This insight reinforces the importance of trauma-informed care in recovery support, acknowledging the role that trauma plays in substance use. Understanding this connection is vital for those working in peer recovery support, as it, helps in developing empathetic and effective approaches to assist clients on their healing journey.